Figuring Out What Your Husky Is Telling You

Dogs communicate through a variety of means, including auditory signals, facial expressions, and body language. To truly understand what your husky is telling you, it's important to recognize and interpret these cues.

Like all sentient creatures, dogs experience the world through their senses. While they have a strong sense of smell that allows them to gather information about their owners, humans can't always do the same in regard to their dogs.

However, dogs are able to communicate their emotions, desires, and demands through visual, audible, and olfactory cues. As humans, we may not be as skilled in the olfactory department, but we can still learn to recognize the messages that dogs leave for their fellow canines. In this chapter, we'll explore how to interpret and respond to your husky's communication.

Picking Up on What Your Dog Is Saying: Audible Cues

Dogs utilize auditory signals, such as barks and growls, as a form of communication. These signals allow for long-distance communication, which was essential for their survival in the wild. Even today, dogs continue to use auditory signals to convey messages to one another.

Contrary to popular belief, barking and howling do not harm a dog's vocal cords. In fact, they can sustain these sounds for extended periods. In this article, we explore the various audible cues your Husky may use and provide guidance on how to interpret them.

Barking

While barking may be considered a juvenile noise, situated acoustically between a snarl and yelp, the scientific study of it is quite fascinating. Recent research has unveiled that dogs possess elasticity in their vocal cords, allowing them to modify their barks to convey various messages. Spectography has been utilized to identify distinct differences in amplitude, pitch, and timing that correspond to a dog's purpose. This discovery confirms what many dog owners already knew, and it provides scientific evidence to support their observations. It has been observed that dogs have a specific bark for strangers, and both humans and dogs instinctively react to it.

Siberian Huskies, true to their heritage, are known to bark less than other breeds. When they do vocalize, they tend to emit softer sounds such as wooing, howling, singing, chirping, and chattering. The Husky's infrequent barking can be attributed to their non-territorial nature, as barking is primarily a territorial call. Although they may occasionally bark to stake their claim on a particular area, they do so less frequently than other dogs.

Remember

The Husky's tendency to bark is often associated with a playful demeanor, which is a characteristic commonly observed in juvenile canines. This behavior can be attributed to the domestication process. Unlike wolves and some primitive dog breeds such as Basenjis, Huskies are known to bark infrequently and instead rely on other forms of vocal communication.

Howling

Howling is a characteristic behavior in dogs that is more commonly observed in breeds of ancient lineage, such as Siberians, Malamutes, and hounds, compared to more modern breeds like the Irish Setter or Toy dogs like the Shih Tzu. Unlike a bark, which is a brief and explosive sound, a howl is a long and drawn-out low-pitched sound that can carry for miles due to its long duration. Some estimates suggest that a Husky's howl can be heard up to 10 miles away, although the conditions must be optimal. Siberian Huskies and Scenthound breeds are among the more likely breeds to howl. Howls are individual and serve multiple purposes, including but not limited to:

» Recognize and communicate with packmates: It is widely recognized that wolves have the ability to distinguish between members of their pack based on the unique sound of their howls. This same capability can reasonably be expected in domesticated dogs as well, given that a howl has a much greater range than a bark.

» Mark territory and ward off would-be intruders: Dogs engage in the act of depositing urine primarily to mark a spot. The markings left behind contain valuable information for other dogs, including details about the age, sex, and health of the marker.

» Express sorrow or pain, both physical and emotional: Similar to humans, dogs display their emotions through various physical actions. These may include exuberant running, leaping up, and vocalizing their excitement. More subdued expressions of happiness may include tail wagging and playful bowing. Conversely, dogs may also exhibit signs of sadness or distress, such as howling or lethargic behavior.

» Bond and communicate with other Huskies: As pet owners may be aware, dogs have been known to howl when bored or in the company of other Siberians, which can serve as a bonding strategy. Additionally, howling can be a form of long-distance communication, and some Huskies may respond to similar noises such as ambulance or train whistles. For those who own multiple Siberians, a community howl may occasionally occur, producing an eerie and evocative wolf-like cry that can be quite pleasant to hear. This effect is created by the dogs howling at different pitches and using modulating tones that reverberate off walls, sometimes making just a pair of Siberians sound like a much larger pack. Typically, it takes more than one dog to initiate a howl, with one dog leading and the others following in a chorus howl. While a survey-based study previously suggested that only 5 percent of dogs howled, recent research out of Tokyo indicates that this behavior may be more common than originally thought, with about half of the dogs studied exhibiting this behavior.

Remember

The dog with the deepest howl or bark is usually the alpha dog.

Dogs of breeds that do not frequently howl may observe with interest when observing dogs engaging in this behavior. It is likely that they do not comprehend the significance of this conduct. A Siberian dog that does not howl can be trained to do so by its howling companions or even by a person who is willing to mimic a dog's behavior by crawling on the floor and baying.

Technical stuff

There is currently no empirical evidence to support the notion that animals howl at the moon. However, there is a hypothesis that suggests they may howl more frequently during a full moon due to enhanced visibility and heightened activity. Additionally, Siberian animals have been observed to vocalize in response to various stimuli such as fire engines, police sirens, and ringing phones.

Wooing

The distinct vocalization, characterized by a melancholic yet alluring tone, is a notable trait of Siberian wildlife. While its meaning can vary, it frequently conveys reluctance or a desire for continued companionship.

Whining

A vocalization characterized by a high-pitched and plaintive sound is commonly known as a whine. Furthermore, it is an indication of submission. If your Husky is exhibiting this behavior, it is highly likely that he is seeking attention for various reasons such as wanting to enter or exit, or to be fed. Additionally, he may be seeking affection.

Growling

Growling is often regarded as a cautionary signal. This behavior is frequently observed in Huskies when they are guarding their food from other canines.

Yelping

If a Husky emits a yelp, it is a clear indication that the animal is experiencing discomfort. Even the slightest mishap, such as an accidental toe-stomp, can elicit a yelp. Alternatively, yelping may be indicative of more severe pain. If the cause of the yelping is unclear, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian for further evaluation.

Soundless chattering

Male Siberian dogs may exhibit a behavior where they rapidly snap their teeth together, often in the presence of a female, indicating sexual excitement and potential trembling. Additionally, teeth chattering may also signify the dog's desire to go for a ride or eat dinner, although it could also be a sign of discomfort from cold temperatures.

Interpreting Your Husky’s Body Language: Visual Cues

Understanding the body language of a Siberian husky is crucial, as they may not always communicate through vocalizations. In fact, visual communication plays a more significant role in this breed compared to others. It's worth noting that certain physical traits, such as lop-eared or docked-tailed dogs, may hinder their ability to express themselves effectively. However, Siberians have full use of their ears and tail, making them excellent communicators. As their owner, it's your responsibility to pay close attention to their nonverbal cues, as missing them could lead to potential danger. These cues may indicate various things, such as illness, overconfidence, or even dislike towards other dogs. The following sections will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these visual cues and how to interpret them correctly.

Circling and sniffing

The customary way for dogs to greet each other is through circling and sniffing. The initial contact is made nose-to-nose, followed by a thorough sniffing of each other's rear end. While this behavior may appear impolite, it is considered acceptable among dogs. However, it is not appropriate for a Husky to greet human guests in the same manner. As such, it is important to discourage this behavior.

Mounting behavior

It is important to note that when a dog mounts another dog or person, it is typically a display of dominance rather than sexuality. This behavior is exhibited by both male and female dogs. In the case of your Husky, it is likely that he is attempting to assert his dominance over his fellow dogs or even over humans. If he is mounting other dogs in the household, it is best to allow them to establish their own dominance hierarchy. Once this is established, the behavior should cease. However, if your Husky persists in mounting humans, it is important to discourage this behavior immediately to prevent him from assuming a leadership role. It is also possible that your dog may be experiencing sexual feelings or attempting to masturbate. In this case, it is recommended to turn away and disengage from the behavior.

Pawing

When a dog places its paw on the shoulder of another dog or a person, it may be attempting to assert dominance. However, it is important to consider that this behavior may also indicate more benign intentions, such as a desire for attention or affection. It is important to carefully observe the context and other signals from the dog in order to accurately interpret their behavior.

Bowing

When a Siberian dog crouches down in front of you and wags its tail quickly, it is exhibiting play-soliciting behavior. This may appear as if the dog is taking a bow, and it may also jump backward and forward while making noises. The dog may also lower its head to one side and stare at you in a curious manner. It is recommended to engage in play with the dog when it exhibits this behavior, as it can lead to a enjoyable experience for both the dog and the person.

Nudging or punching

When a Husky nudges or punches with their nose, it is often a signal that they desire interaction, such as play or petting. This behavior is considered more dominant than bowing or pawing, as the dog is essentially demanding attention rather than politely requesting it.

Wanting a belly rub

Many dogs enjoy receiving belly rubs, as it stimulates their hair follicles and produces a pleasurable response. This reaction may be linked to social grooming, as dogs often scratch their own bellies in response to being rubbed. Scientists have observed a cluster of nerves under the skin that activates the scratch response via the spinal cord, potentially as an involuntary means of ridding the dog of fleas and ticks. While some dogs may not enjoy this sensation and will move away, most will happily allow their bellies to be rubbed as a sign of comfort and happiness in their human's presence.

Hand-holding

It is not uncommon for Huskies to display their affection by gently taking their owner's hand in their mouth. This gesture serves as a way to request trust and assure their owner that they will not bite. Allowing your Husky to do so can be viewed as a bonding strategy and a demonstration of faith in your pet.

Mouth-licking

In puppies, mouth-licking is a care-soliciting behavior, in which the youngsters seek food from their mothers. This behavior often persists into adulthood. Sometimes a dog just licks the mouth of the other dog; sometimes he actually pokes around in there, lifting the corners of the mouth and sniffing away. The dog may be looking to see what his friend has been dining on. Most of the time, the submissive dog licks the mouth of the more dominant dog.

Constant licking or tail-chewing

In younger canines, paw licking or chewing may be a common nervous behavior, potentially indicating a need for elimination. Chewing at the base of the tail may suggest the presence of fleas.

Warning

If a canine spends a brief period of time or an extended duration licking various surfaces, it is possible that they are experiencing feelings of nausea and may be on the verge of regurgitating. It is recommended to promptly relocate the animal outdoors.

Technical stuff

If a dog continues to exhibit licking behavior for an extended period of time without any evident organic cause, particularly if it leads to raw or bleeding paws, it may be indicative of an obsessive-compulsive disorder. This disorder is similar to the one observed in humans and is not a psychological issue caused by loneliness, neurosis, or boredom. Additional dogs or activities do not typically alleviate the problem, and behavior modification methods are generally ineffective. Only specific antidepressants have been shown to treat genuine obsessive-compulsive behavior in dogs, such as Anafranil and Prozac, which have yielded positive outcomes in two out of three cases, according to a study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health. The root cause of the disorder, like in humans, may have been a severe infection that went undiagnosed and left a distinct protein marker on the surface of certain cells, which responds to the antidepressant.

Reading Your Dog’s Facial Gestures

Dogs possess a notable ability to communicate through their facial expressions, despite their limited range of expression compared to humans. The Facial Action Coding System (FACS) has identified 16 distinct facial expressions in dogs, in contrast to the 27 found in humans. Several examples of these expressions are listed below. » Tongue flicking: This particular gesture resembling a serpent may indicate that your Siberian husky needs to relieve itself. It can be compared to a child crossing their legs.

» Head tilting: When a canine tilts its head to one side, accompanied by a perplexed or inquisitive expression, it indicates a state of confusion or interest towards a particular matter.

» Rubbing his face in the carpet: Typically, this behavior is indicative of an itchy face in dogs. However, persistent face-rubbing may suggest the presence of an inhalant allergy.

THE EYES HAVE IT

Dogs communicate through both vocalizations and visual cues, including their eyes. Recent scientific research has revealed that when Siberian Huskies and their owners share a loving gaze, both parties experience an increase in oxytocin, a bonding chemical also present in the interactions between mothers and babies. The movement of a dog's eyebrows is controlled by small muscles, such as the levator, anguli, and oculi medials, which allow for a wide range of specialized movement. For those interested in learning more, additional information can be found at https://wagwalking.com/behavior/why-do-dogs-move-their-eyebrows. Additionally, researchers have found that dogs raise their eyebrows more frequently when humans gaze at them, which may indicate pleasure or curiosity. Similarly, humans often raise their eyebrows in response to positive experiences or interactions.

Watching Your Husky’s Tail

Siberian Huskies typically lower their tails while at rest or while pulling sleds. An increase in excitement may cause their tails to curl upward. Conversely, a dragging tail may indicate fatigue. When a Husky wags its tail, it is conveying a message similar to when it smiles. Generally, a wagging tail represents happiness, although it can also indicate nervousness. The interpretation of a Husky's tail wag depends on the specific manner in which it is wagging. The following information can assist in understanding your Husky's tail language.

» When a dog wags its tail rapidly and horizontally, it is typically an indicator of happiness. It is common for the entire rear end of the dog to wag along with the tail. However, it is important to note that nervous dogs may also wag their tails on occasion. This behavior should not be misconstrued as a sign of joy, as the dog may simply be anxious or uneasy in its surroundings.

» A slower and incomplete wag from an erect tail could be an indication of dominant aggression, similar to the demeanor of a villain in classic Western films.

» The position of a dog's tail can indicate submission or fear. It has been observed that some low-status dogs eat with their tails between their legs in the hope that dominant dogs will not steal their food. A recent study conducted in Italy found that when dogs wag their tails to the right, it indicates a positive emotional state, whereas leftward tail wagging signals a more negative feeling. Additionally, dogs that wag their tails to the left experience an increase in heart rate, while right waggers maintain a steadier, lower rate. The study involved observing family dogs placed temporarily in cages and introduced to their owners, strangers, cats, and aggressive dogs. The results showed that dogs wagged their tails vigorously in a rightward swirl when their owners were present, while the aggressive dog elicited a halfhearted wag to the left. Both the human stranger and the cat elicited cautious wags oriented slightly to the right.

Remember

Dogs express happiness by going soft all over. They wag their whole body, not just their tails, and their eyes grow tender.

Making Sense of Weird Behavior

Canine behavior can be unpredictable and may not always align with our expectations. It is important to acknowledge that dogs have their own motivations, even if they may seem peculiar or difficult to understand. In this article, we will explore some unusual behaviors exhibited by dogs.nm

Rolling in nasty stuff

It has been suggested that dogs may use rolling in foul substances, such as deer carcasses and cow manure, as a means of enhancing their scent. Unlike cats, who rely on stealth to catch prey, dogs do not concern themselves with how they smell to potential prey. In the wild, dogs primarily rely on running down their prey. Therefore, the scents they collect may serve a purpose within the pack, possibly aiding in the establishment of dominance.

Scooting

If your dog exhibits the behavior of scooting, it may indicate an attempt to empty their anal glands, which are small pouches located on either side of the anus. While some may associate scooting with worms, it is more likely an issue with the anal glands becoming full or impacted. While most dogs can resolve this issue independently, there may be cases where veterinary or grooming assistance is necessary. In such instances, professionals can provide guidance on expressing the anal glands, a task that may be unpleasant due to the associated odor. It is recommended to have two assistants, one to hold the dog and the other to mitigate the smell.

Remember

Wear disposable gloves when you’re expressing your dog’s glands. Canine researchers aren’t positive what the purpose of this stinky stuff is, but it’s probably to mark territory. In rare occasions, if the anal sacs have become seriously impacted or infected, a simple surgery is required.

Eating grass

The reason behind why dogs eat grass remains a mystery. This behavior has been observed in wild dogs as well, and while dogs may consume other plants, they seem to prefer grass. Some experts speculate that dogs may eat grass to obtain roughage, which is necessary for their diets. However, dogs cannot digest grass, and they often vomit it up. It is possible that grass acts as an emetic, causing dogs to vomit. Despite this, eating grass does not seem to cause any harm to dogs, although it may cause inconvenience for their owners when cleaning up vomit stains. Removing grass stains mixed with dog stomach acid can be particularly challenging.

Remember

It is advisable to refrain from using lawn chemicals on your property, as your Husky's inclination towards consuming grass serves as an additional reason. Opt for planting native plants that can flourish in your region without the need for chemicals.

Rock eating

It has been observed that some dogs, particularly puppies, have developed a concerning habit of consuming rocks as a mineral supplement. While this behavior may stem from curiosity or boredom, experts have yet to identify any physical causes such as anemia or electrolyte imbalances. This habit, commonly referred to as pica, can be detrimental to the health of the dog. Solutions for this issue include removing rocks from the yard and utilizing a basket muzzle to prevent further consumption of non-food items.

Eating feces

The formal term for the consumption of feces is coprophagia. The reasons behind why dogs engage in this behavior are not fully understood, but it may be an innate trait. It is worth noting that a mother dog may consume the feces of her young puppies to maintain a clean environment. However, in most cases, feces-eating is not beneficial for dogs as it lacks essential nutrients. Despite this, dogs may still consume their own feces, those of other dogs, or even other species such as cats or horses. Coprophagia is not only unhygienic but also poses a risk to the health of your dog.

Warning

Most dogs have a tendency to consume cat excrement with great enthusiasm. However, it is important to note that cat excrement can be hazardous since it carries Toxoplasma gondii, which can lead to various health issues. To prevent this, it is recommended to keep the litter box inaccessible to the dog and maintain a clean yard by frequently removing any waste.

It is worth noting that coprophagia tends to be more prevalent in young dogs aged between 4 and 9 months. While it is possible that your Husky may outgrow this behavior, it is also possible that he may develop a liking for fecal matter and continue to engage in this behavior.

Some medical conditions seem to induce coprophagia, including:

» Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

» Pancreatitis

» Overfeeding a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet

» Intestinal infections

» Certain malabsorption conditions

It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to eliminate the possibility of any underlying disorders. In addition, it is important to consider the potential for boredom in dogs. As they are not naturally inclined towards educational activities such as stamp collecting, they may resort to engaging in behaviors such as consuming feces.

Tip

There are some suggestions that involve using hot sauce to deter dogs from approaching feces, but it is unlikely to be effective. Dogs have a keen sense of smell and will likely learn to avoid feces that have been treated with hot sauce.

There are several products available in the market that are specifically designed to prevent coprophagia in dogs. One option is to add meat tenderizer or monosodium glutamate (MSG) to the dog's food, which can make their waste taste unpleasant. If this does not prove effective, there are over-the-counter options such as Deter, which can be given to your dog every two weeks. Additionally, there is a veterinarian-prescribed product called Forbid that serves the same purpose.

Tip

Consider altering your canine companion's diet to incorporate more protein and less fat. It is reasonable to anticipate noticeable improvements within a month's time.

Noticing Your Siberian’s Sleeping Style

Dogs sleep for extended periods, surpassing any other mammal with over 14 hours a day. The duration of your Husky's sleep, however, is dependent on its exercise and boredom levels. The scientific reason for this phenomenon is that dogs spend less than 10% of their sleep time in rapid eye movement (REM) cycles, unlike humans who spend 25% of their sleep time in this most restful stage. Consequently, dogs require more sleep to achieve sufficient rest. The underlying reason for dogs' reduced REM time remains unknown to researchers. Observing your Husky's body position while sleeping provides insights into its comfort levels and self-image. In cold weather, the Siberian swirls, tucking its tender nose under its furry tail for warmth. A Husky snuggled close to you may not be trying to keep warm as it is to feel secure. An alpha dog, however, may maintain a distance of a few inches, indicating that it can handle any situation. A dog lower in the dominance hierarchy may snuggle closer. If your Husky sleeps flat on its back with its legs in the air, it is a sign of supreme confidence and friendliness, and it is entirely at ease. This posture is highly vulnerable, and only the most self-assured dog will assume it.

Warning

It is worth noting that dogs exhibit Rapid Eye Movement (REM) during their sleep, similar to humans. It is important to avoid disturbing a dog while they are dreaming, as they may be experiencing a nightmare. Even the most docile dog may react aggressively if awakened at an inappropriate time.

Remember

When a Siberian lies flat on his stomach with his legs sprawling in every direction, it is likely that he is attempting to dissipate his body heat in the most efficient way possible. It is important to note that a Husky's yawn should not always be interpreted as an indication of fatigue. In fact, it may also be a sign of anxiety or tension, particularly when preparing your Husky for a walk or a ride.

ARE DOG YAWNS CONTAGIOUS BETWEEN PEOPLE AND DOGS?

A team of Japanese scientists has conducted research indicating that dogs frequently yawn after their owners, but are less likely to do so in response to strangers. This suggests an emotional bond between humans and their pets. While yawning is a common behavior in the animal kingdom, contagious yawning is relatively rare and has been observed in chimpanzees, bonobos, and stump-tailed macaques. Scientists believe that yawning helps to cool the brain and may serve as a calming signal to dogs.